Perigord is one of the largest and most picturesque areas in France. It is divided into two by the River Dordogne which founded the historic frontier between France and England during the Hundred Years War (1337-1453). Along its banks you'll find over a thousand castles steeped in legend and history, and witness to centuries of conquests and conflict. Today the rich and varied culture of this land is still here for you to discover. You will meander along paths that follow the twists and turns of the valley and you will climb through fields and shaded woodland to hilltop towns and fortified strongholds with impressive views.
I really enjoyed the hike. Made friends from all over the world. The first few days was challenging purely because you need to find your mountain legs. After day 3 you settle down.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year on this 10-day Europe Highlights Christmas tour! This festive journey will take you from Italy to Switzerland and back again with countless adventures in between. Discover the beauty of Venice, Munich’s famous Christmas markets, the Amsterdam canals, the twinkling lights of Paris and the snowy Swiss Alps on Christmas day. Visit mountainous Innsbruck, explore the charming Belgian city of Ghent, cruise the Rhine River and admire Florence’s masterpieces. End the tour in Rome on New Year’s Eve after making memories to last a lifetime!
The final stage of the picturesque French Way of St James through Basque country and the foothills of the Pyrenees. Traverse the centuries of time and the borders of Europe on the medieval pilgrim trail of Compostela. In the 9th century, the tomb of the apostle St James was unearthed in Compostela. The site became the focus of a pilgrim trail beginning in France, and crossing northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. This journey, along the Via Podiensis, the French Way of St James, takes pilgrims from Le Puy en Velay to the Pyrenees at St Jean Pied de Port. The route passes a multitude of churches and monasteries, resembling a travelling museum of Romanesque art. Six stages of this historic trail are included in our self-guided walking program in France.
Walking from Aire sur l'Adour offers an insight into the contrasting Béarn and Basque regions of France which have a unique culture, language and cuisine. The landscape is inspiring as you walk between woods and open fields, past a multitude of chapels and historic sights and take time to absorb the history of the villages passed, once resting points for thousands of pilgrims during the Middle Ages. Arriving into St Jean Pied de Port through the Porte Saint-Jacques is a highlight and a rewarding end to the journey along the Via Podensis.
Aire-sur-l'Adour, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, The Way of St. James, Aire Sur L'adour, St Jean Pied De Port, Miramont-Sensacq, Fichous-Riumayou, Arthez-de-Béarn, Sauvelade, Aroue, Saint-Palais, Ostabat-Asme
Trip was well paced. Accommodations were good. Plugged shower drain in two locations one with a good response, another with a bad response. Food was good. Good view of rural France.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, The Way of St. James, Le Puy-en-Velay, Auvillar, Armagnac, Aire-sur-l'Adour, Maslacq, St Palais, Saugues, Aumont-Aubrac, Estaing, Conques, Figeac, Bouziès, Cahors, Lauzerte
A rewarding walk from the mountains of inland Corsica to the rose coloured Calanques of Piana high above the sea. A veritable mountain in the sea, Corsica is the most geographically diverse of the Mediterranean Islands. It offers such a variety of landscapes from snow topped mountain peaks to fine sandy beaches. Age old paths link the high mountain plains with their shepherd huts through to the picturesque Mediterranean Coast. This itinerary starts in the central valley and crosses the Grand Randonnee 20 (GR20), the challenging long-distance route running most of the length of Corsica. On foot you'll discover scented pine forests and the pretty mountain village of Evisa, known for its chestnuts, and explore the deep Spelunca Gorge. From Porto you can explore the unique jumble of rose granite pinnacles including the famous Calanques of Piana before visiting Corsica's capital Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon.
As we were following the Bay of Biscay (Atlantic coastline) it was a beautiful part of the world to visit, see, experience. Would totally recommend it.
Ride along the German Rhine and a section of the Alsace Wine Route in France to discover one of the most culturally rich regions in Europe. Explore the Rhine River from both the German and French sides to indulge in the very best this enchanting region has to offer. With seemingly endless picture perfect landscapes lining the meandering Rhine, dedicated bike paths for safe and easy cycling and a swathe of beautifully preserved villages to inspire you each day, there are few cycle trips that offer so many 'bells and whistles'. From the EU capital of Strasbourg to the art city of Frieburg, traditional Colmar to the moated, UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Neuf-Brisach, the Romanesque and Baroque architecture as well as medieval castles will keep you captivated. The gastronomic delights are plentiful in this part of Europe and you can sample some of the regions finest produce as you cycle through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards. This itinerary soaks up the relaxed and jovial atmosphere of one of the most picturesque parts of the Alsace Wine Route, which can only be described as a wine-lovers' wonderland, taking in the routes most famous villages of Eguisheim, Turckheim, Kaysersberg and Riquewihr, where you will witness delightful examples of traditional half-timbered Alsatian architecture. With so many highlights your pedals will seem to turn themselves during this simply stunning ride along the Rhine River and its various valleys in Germany and France.
We booked a 7 day trip with U-Tracks, with the ultimate goal of summiting Gran Paradiso. We were a group of 11 work colleagues who annually take on a charity event with this being the selected even this year. I must admit the trip was spectacular. the 6 day 'approach' to gran paradiso was varied in the way of physical challenge and then scenery. our guide - max was first class. he was able to assess the group and maintained a superb pace to keep us all moving. this was the first time we had taken on something as demanding as this (the final day in particular). The last day summit of gran paradiso was physically challenging but not technically (the very final summit section becomes technical but very well managed). the whole trip was fantastic from start to finish. I would 100% recommend and use again.
Discover the royal splendour of Paris and the Seine Valley by bike and barge. France's Seine Valley is a region rich in royal history. With so much to see, do and absorb, the ideal way to explore this fascinating part of France is by bike and barge. From the lights of Paris to the beautiful medieval towns of Ferriers and Chateau-Landon, you'll experience a diverse range of sights during this week long cycling tour. The magnificent Fontainebleau Chateau, with its perfectly symmetrical Royal Gardens which the French kings had their royal architects design for them, is a fine example of the regions regal past. Cycling along the river in the company of your expert guide, through woodlands and small villages, ensures you'll gain a unique insight into this beautiful region. Cities, canals and cosy French towns - this trip will provide you with a truly magnificent French experience.
Walk the southern half of the the most challenging long distance walking trail in Europe, the GR20. The southern section of the GR20 is considered slightly less challenging than the northern route, however the landscapes are equally stunning. During the 6 days of hiking you will gain an appreciation for the rural communities who live in the region and the rugged wilderness that characterises the route. Your main luggage is transferred, allowing you to walk with just a day pack. From the forest of Vizzavona to the Needles of Bavella and on to Conca, the full GR20 experience is encapsulated in the daily views ranging from alpine meadows where sheep graze, to views to the sea as far as the Italian island of Sardinia. The sixth day is the longest on the GR20 if you take the upper route, and your legs will remember it long after you have left Corsica but the satisfaction of completing this section of this epic walk makes it all worthwhile. On arrival in Conca you can celebrate at the sign marking the end of the GR20!
Note: for safety reasons this trip can not be operated for one person / solo traveller. Minimum two people are required.
A classic walk through the old Armagnac region and the Gers with its landscape dotted with bullrings, bastides and castles interspersed with fields of sunflowers and corn. Traverse the centuries of time and the borders of Europe on the medieval pilgrim trail. In the 9th century, the tomb of the apostle St James was unearthed in Compostela. The site became the focus of a pilgrim trail beginning in France, and crossing northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. This journey, along the Via Podiensis, the French Way of St James, takes pilgrims from Le Puy en Velay to the Pyrenees at St Jean Pied de Port. The route passes a multitude of churches and monasteries, resembling a travelling museum of Romanesque art. Six stages of this historic trail are included in our self-guided walking program in France.
This stage between Lectoure and Aire sur l'Adour takes you through the heart of the Armagnac region. Leaving the limestone coloured landscapes surrounding Lectoure, the trail weaves through the Gers with its open farmland interspersed with historic villages dominated by their cathedrals and churches, bullrings and bastides. Markets with an abundance of local products and fields of corn and vines lay testament to the areas deep connections to the land and the strong gastromomic traditions of the region.
Hike the GR20 in Corsica, one of the most beautiful mountain treks in the world. Over 13 days, we hike 110mi (180km) in mountainous terrain, rising from the Mediterranean Sea to granite peaks topping 8,530ft (2,600m). Rather than take the classic north-to-south route, we head in the opposite direction, with the sun on our backs, a quieter trail, and the toughest legs at the end of the trip. You won’t be doing it alone either. The adventure is guided by an experienced International Mountain Leader with expert knowledge on the route and you’ll be part of a small group of like-minded hikers ready with words of encouragement.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Corsica, Conca, Vallone, Haut As
Corsica, Conca, Vallone, Haut Asco, Carrozzu, Ortu Di Piobbu, Calenzana, Bastia, Bavella, Cuscionu Plateau, Cozzano, Col De Verde, Vizzavona, Refuge Petra Piana, Refuge De Manganu